The Vhi Women's Mini Marathon returns this Bank Holiday Sunday 4 June, and will see thousands take part in the 10km road race.
Always an inspiring show of determination, resilience and generosity – as many runners fundraise for charity in the lead up to the race – the mini marathon is also a motivator for any of us thinking of getting the runners on and hitting the tarmac.
We caught up with Aimee Connolly, Vhi Women's Mini Marathon ambassador and the beauty entrepreneur behind Sculpted by Aimee, to chat about running, staying motivated toward her goals and preparing for her wedding later this year.
What inspired you to come on board as an ambassador for the Vhi Women's Mini Marathon?
I love to exercise and find it really helps to clear my mind. Running especially is a great way for me to unwind after a long day in the office. I'm also the type of person who loves to work towards a goal, so running the 10km of the Vhi Women's Mini Marathon has been a great event for me to train for. The sense of community and inclusivity is so special when you’re taking part alongside over 20,000 other women. I was blown away by the atmosphere and camaraderie when I ran it last year and can’t wait to do it again this year.
I saw you were getting those miles in even while travelling in South Korea, how do you balance that with a demanding work and social life?
It’s definitely a challenge! Staying active is a big part of me looking after my stress levels and I work it into my day wherever I can. I like to combine exercising with meeting my friends, so I get double the benefit. As well as running, at the weekends or evenings I love to play tennis with my fiancée John, go for a walk with my mum or a sea swim with my best friend Roisin who’s also a Pilates instructor. Sleep is also really important when I’m combining a hectic work schedule with a busy social life.
What would be your tips for people thinking of getting into running but who feel intimidated by doing so?
Start small and build yourself up gradually. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve over time! The Couch to 5k app is so handy for putting structure on your training. Putting together a playlist of songs is also great to keep your momentum going.
What are your tips for preparing for a milestone event like the mini marathon?
Schedule your training like you would a meeting in work and make it a non-negotiable. It’s also great to rope in a training buddy for accountability. Look after your nutrition, stress levels, and sleep too, as much as possible.
Who will be there cheering for you on marathon day?
My mum, Clare, is one of my biggest cheerleaders in general and she’ll be right there with me cheering me on!
Do you have any fitness goals you're working toward at the moment?
The Vhi Women's Mini Marathon is my main goal at the moment, but during the summer I’ll be keeping my progress going by taking part in some park runs.
As a beauty entrepreneur, I'm sure protecting your skin while exercising is a priority, what are your skincare tips?
SPF all the way, especially when you’re running! I make sure to include SPF across my Sculpted by Aimee range of cosmetics too where possible.
You're getting married soon, congratulations! How is the planning going, and what are you most excited for on the big day?
The planning is full on but I feel now that things are really coming together! John and my mum are brilliant and I have the best bridesmaids who have been such a great support.
I’m so excited to be marrying my best friend and having all the people I love together. I have the most amazing family and friends and I can’t wait to share the day with them!
